For many people, it might be difficult to distinguish between a typical headache or migraine. Although both disorders create headaches, their underlying origins, signs, and severity are quite different. So basically, what is a migraine, and how is it different from a headache? Migraines are frequently characterised by intense, throbbing pain that is usually localised to one side of the head. On the other hand, a normal headache, which is usually caused by tension, is usually less severe and does not present with these other symptoms.
Signs That It Is a Migraine
Following are some of the migraine symptoms that individuals frequently experience
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Aura Before Pain:
- A migraine often begins with an "aura," a visual disturbance like shimmering lights or patterns warning you of the impending headache.
- This unique feature gives migraine sufferers an early heads-up, distinguishing them from regular headaches.
- The aura typically occurs just minutes before the severe head pain, providing a valuable window to address migraine symptoms before they become debilitating.
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Blurry Vision:
- During a migraine, your vision can blur and become unfocused, making the world appear as if seen through a fog or haze.
- This visual symptom is a common accompaniment to migraine headaches, setting them apart from regular headaches, where vision usually remains clear.
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Pain on One Side:
- Migraines are characterised by one-sided pain, in contrast to typical headaches that cause more generalised discomfort.
- The pain during a migraine is often described as throbbing or pulsating and is concentrated on just one side of the head.
- This unilateral pain is a key distinguishing feature of migraines.
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Sensitivity to Light, Touch, Smell, or Sound:
- Migraine sufferers often experience heightened sensitivity to various sensory stimuli.
- Bright lights become intolerable, even in normal lighting conditions.
- Gentle touches can feel overwhelmingly intense, specific odours might induce nausea, and quiet sounds can become unbearably loud.
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Nausea:
- Nausea is a common symptom associated with migraines.
- It extends beyond head pain and affects the entire body.
- During a migraine, you may feel queasy, sick to your stomach, and, in some cases, vomit.
- This gastrointestinal distress is one of the non-headache symptoms that differentiates migraines from regular headaches.
Conclusion
In summary, the ability to differentiate between headaches or migraines is essential for managing and receiving the right care. By identifying the crucial markers, people may make well-informed choices on getting medical help, changing their lifestyles, and developing practical solutions. By doing so, their quality of life will be enhanced as they will be better able to handle the specific difficulties that migraines bring. Comprehensive health insurance plans often include preventive care services, which can help reduce the severity and frequency of migraines through early intervention.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
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